If the X-Men lived in L.A., I'd imagine the Peace Awareness Labrynth and Gardens in Mid-City is where they'd live. The place is an old mansion, complete with a front gate where you're buzzed in, twin lion statues guarding the entrance, beautiful gardens and fountains, and... oh yes... that labrynth.
Rawr!
Searching online for past issues of Los Angeles Magazine, I found a Hidden Labrynths page. Labrynths are already mysterious, so add the word "hidden" to them, and it's doubly awesome. We immediately called up two of our favorite atheists and headed out to the gardens.
I mention the fact that my companions are not spiritual because it just so happens that this is a pretty spiritual touchy-feely place. Thank goodness the only complaint from the peanut gallery was "oh, I thought it was gonna be one of those labrynths with the high garden walls." Our guide didn't pressure us at all to change our beliefs, and although they do ask for your email address when you sign in, you can easily leave it off. So I guess what I'm getting at is, atheists, don't be afraid!
The Peace Awareness Labrynth website describes the place as "a day retreat where people can relax in nature without leaving the city of Los Angeles". Entry is free, and on Sundays they offer free garden tours. They also serve lunch and dinner here, for pretty cheap ($6 or $7 I think? Call for details).
Our tour started inside, where our guide talked about the history of the mansion. The house was built in 1910 in the Italian Renaissance Revival Style and declared Historic Cultural Landmark No. 478 in 1990. Back in the early 1900's, this was where all the rich people lived; the Italian actor Rudolph Valentino even lived next door.
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We then headed outside where our guide gave us some quick directions on how to walk the labrynth. Brad decided to try it while carrying our little girl, but stopped and turned around after about a minute because he was feeling dizzy and was afraid of dropping our baby. Who knew labrynths could be so perilous?
By the way, I found it amusing that there's a basketball hoop right next to the labrynth. After you walk your way to inner peace, you can enjoy a game of one on one!
We really enjoyed our time at the gardens, and I'd love to return and check out their lunch or dinner.
Have you been to the Peace Awareness Gardens and Labrynth? What did you think of it? Leave me a comment below!
Peace Awareness Labrynth and Garden
I just wanted to say wow what a great blog. I enjoy reading it and it is very informative.
ReplyDeleteYou inspired me to set up my own blog about golf in Los Angeles - richiesworldofgolf.com
Richie
I work at the Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens and completely love it. You captured the beauty and essence of the location really well. The people on staff are equally wonderful. When I walk in each day, I am grateful for my life. That is pretty cool. Thanks so much for this fantastic article! Blessings, Debbie :)
ReplyDeleteI discovered 'Peace Awareness Labrynth and Gardens'
ReplyDeleteyesterday evening while walking to my polling place. I have live two blocks away for nearly 7 years. I am thrilled to find this web pictorial and the information provided. It is wonderful to know that this beautiful facility is so close bye and is open to the public. Thank you sharing a place for peace in my own backyard.
Namaste~
Nailah Denise